The Kitchener Rangers blanked the Windsor Spitfires 4-0 on Sunday night, April 20, 2025, at The Aud, forcing a decisive Game 7 in their OHL playoff series. With this victory, the Rangers have tied the series at three games apiece, setting the stage for an exciting final showdown on Tuesday night in Windsor.
The game started slowly, with both teams unable to find the net in the first period. However, the Rangers struck first midway through the second period when Cameron Mercer scored, assisted by Andrew Vermeulen and Cameron Arquette. This goal ignited the Rangers, who quickly doubled their lead with a penalty shot goal from Jack Pridham, who showcased his skill with a crafty move that left Spitfires goalie Joey Costanzo with no chance.
Pridham was not done yet; he found the back of the net again in the third period, extending Kitchener's lead to 3-0. The Rangers capped off their scoring with a fourth goal from Andrew Vermeulen, who connected with Arquette and Luke Ellinas to seal the deal with just under three minutes remaining in the game.
Jackson Parsons was stellar in net for Kitchener, recording his second shutout of the series with 29 saves. His performance was crucial, especially considering the stakes of the game. "I just focused on staying calm and playing my game," Parsons said after the match. "The defense did a great job in front of me, and we executed our game plan perfectly."
The Rangers' offensive effort was complemented by strong defensive play, as they limited the Spitfires to just 29 shots on goal. Kitchener also won the faceoff battle, dominating at 58% compared to Windsor's 42%. Despite having multiple power play opportunities, the Rangers failed to capitalize, going 0 for 4, while the Spitfires were unable to convert on their six chances as well.
Attendance for the game was reported at 6,139, creating an electric atmosphere at The Aud. Fans were treated to a thrilling display of hockey as both teams fought hard for control of the series.
Prior to the game, the Spitfires were looking to close out the series and advance to the next round. They had led the series 3-2 but had dropped the last two games, raising concerns among players and fans alike. The absence of key players due to injuries, including A.J. Spellacy, Carson Woodall, Ethan Belchetz, and Cole Davis, had taken a toll on the team's performance. Additionally, team captain Liam Greentree missed the previous game due to illness, leaving a gap in leadership on the ice.
Windsor's head coach emphasized the need for his team to refocus and stick to their game plan. "We need to get back to what worked for us in the first three games," he stated. "Details matter in these tight playoff games, and we need to execute better to come out on top in Game 7."
As the series shifts back to Windsor for Game 7, the Spitfires will need to rally and find a way to overcome their recent struggles. They will look to leverage their offensive strengths and solid goaltending to secure a spot in the next round of the playoffs.
The stage is set for a thrilling conclusion to this series. Game 7 is scheduled for Tuesday, April 22, 2025, at 7:05 p.m. at the WFCU Centre in Windsor. Both teams will need to adjust their strategies and come prepared for what promises to be an intense battle.
In summary, the Kitchener Rangers have pushed the Windsor Spitfires to the brink, setting up a winner-takes-all Game 7. With both teams showcasing their offensive prowess and solid defensive play, fans can expect an exciting conclusion to this hard-fought series.
